People with Alzheimer disease have an atrophy of the cortical tissue within the brain. When examined at autopsy the brain shows abnormal fibers that appear to be tangles of brain tissue filaments (neurofibrillary tangles) and senile plaques (patches of degenerative nerve endings). This damage is believed to cause disruption to transmission of impulses amongst brain cells. It is this damage that is thought to produce the symptoms of the disease.

Symptoms

The early stages of Alzheimer disease and other dementias can be difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms are initially subtle or common to other illnesses. Symptoms also vary among individuals and between the various diseases that cause dementia.

As people get older, they start to forget little things, like the names of acquaintances and where they put the car keys. This needn't be a sign of dementia and in a lot of cases it's just that we are growing old and our brains are no longer at their peak.

It's important to understand the early signs of Alzheimer and to seek a medical diagnosis if several symptoms are noticed. Often, it is a family member or close associate who first notices a change in the behavior or mood of a loved one; these people are instrumental in helping the person to get medical care.

Causes

Scientists do not yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer disease. There probably is not one single cause, but several factors that affect each person differently. Age is the most important known risk factor for Alzheimer disease. The number of people with the disease doubles every 5 years beyond age 65.

Researchers have also considered genetic causes of Alzheimer disease and have found that some genetic mutations do seem to increase the chance of developing Alzheimer symptoms. Mutations in the genetic codes of beta-amyloid proteins and presenilin 1 and 2 have been considered as causes of early-onset Alzheimer. While the mutations often appear with early-onset Alzheimer, the majority of patients with Alzheimer-related brain damage do not show any evidence of these mutations.

Home Remedies

Sesame oil is a holistic food item that is actually the basic ingredient of most herbal medicine originating from India.

Studies have shown that sesame oil can relieve the depression associated with Alzheimer disease.

To use sesame oil for Alzheimer, heat a small amount of oil using a tablespoon over a burner or a candle.

Apply three drops of the warmed sesame seed oil in both the patient's nostril twice a day.

Ginkgo - Unfortunately, doctors have underestimated the power of this herb but Ginkgo maximizes the flow of blood to the brain and helps protect neurons from free radicals. Recommended usage is 240 mg a day.